I would say that generally, a longer barrel .22 would be the best defensive weapon. In the case where a single shot stops the aggressor, that causes less physical damage. Where it doesn't, the first shot probably slows them down enough that the second shot can be made to the head.
Of course, if you aren't looking to make a 2nd shot, then a good .45 ACP is probably the best bet.
That is interesting. I use a 357 and found that when I shoot people in the head or torso it kills them 100% of the time. Sorry...that last part is a lie. I got carried away after reading that report. Seriously, I have confidence in the 357.
The .357 data is especially interesting to me as carbines chambered in .357/.38 are widely available at reasonable prices. Using the same caliber for both handgun and rifle could be invaluable. Other tests have shown the .357 to be very capable for hunting small-medium game up to 200 yd. They are cheap to reload (at present) and target practice with reloaded .38 even cheaper.
I would say that generally, a longer barrel .22 would be the best defensive weapon. In the case where a single shot stops the aggressor, that causes less physical damage. Where it doesn't, the first shot probably slows them down enough that the second shot can be made to the head.
Of course, if you aren't looking to make a 2nd shot, then a good .45 ACP is probably the best bet.
My caveat on the whole issue. The best weapon to carry or use is the one you hit your target the most reliably with.
I carry .357 glazer in the first two chambers.